The first attempts at building a vehicle that would move over snow on runners happened over 70 years ago. 

In 1935, a snowmobile was built with skis in front and a sprocket wheel and tracked system in back. 

It was the late 1950s, with the development of smaller gasoline engines, before the one- or two-passenger lightweight chassis snowmobile was marketed - and with it, a new recreational activity was born.

Ten years later, there were dozens of manufacturers producing snowmobiles that sold for a few hundred dollars a piece.

Today, with more than 4 million riders, snowmobiling is a major winter recreational activity and a significant factor in increased winter tourism in much of Canada and the snowbelt of the United States.

The history of the “snow machine” is yet to be completed. Today’s snowmobile bears little resemblance to earlier models. By today’s standards, many of the machines of the 60’s and 70’s are considered antiques. 

1. To view the scenery
2. To be with friends
3. To get away from usual demands of life.
4. To do something with their family
5. To be close with nature.

There are over three thousand snowmobile clubs worldwide. Snowmobile clubs are non-profit and volunteer driven; they are grassroots groups based in local communities. There are 25 state assoications in the US.  

Snowmobile clubs work with state associations and provincial organizations to carry out numerous recreational and community service programs by:

• constructing, maintaining and mapping trails and working with government officials and landowners on surveying and designing trails;
• sponsoring snowmobile outings and year-round social activities;
• monitoring and initiating legislation;
• participating in public hearings and commenting on government proposals;
• conducting safety and maintenance clinics and volunteering their services as certified safety training instructors;
• publishing newsletters and newspapers; and
• providing vital services to sheriff’s departments, police and civil defense units by organizing specially trained search and rescue units. These patrol and rescue units engage in a variety of activities:
  • are on 24-hour call for emergencies;
  • patrol vacation home sites;
  • assist police in traffic control;
  • patrol trails; search for hikers, skiers, hunters, children and others who are lost;
  • assist conservation officers in emergency animal feeding activities

Snowmobilers are caring neighbors. They are active, loving, outdoor enthusiasts. They show their caring attitude through action in fund raising for charities throughout the world.

Snowmobilers across Canada and the U.S. consistently raise around $3 million dollars annually for organizations such as: the Easter Seals, Special Olympics, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Pine Tree Camp and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Well designed, signed and maintained trails and riding areas not only provide enjoyable recreational snowmobiling opportunities but have been proven to significantly reduce the likelihood of a snowmobiler being injured. Safe trails and use areas remain a top priority and concern of the snowmobile community.

Statistics indicate that only approximately 10 - 15% of snowmobile incidents occur on well maintained and designed trails where as much as 80-90% of all snowmobile riding takes place.

Wisconsin has more than 25,000 miles of maintained snowmobile trails.

Approximately 80 percent of snowmobilers use their snowmobile for trail riding and touring in marked and groomed trails. The other 20 percent of snowmobilers use their snowmobile for work and ice fishing.

Snowmobile clubs construct, maintain and map trails, usually in cooperation with state and local governments.

No, they serve many other functions.  In remote portions of Canada and the U.S., snowmobiles are some residents' primary mode of transportation. Snowmobiles are relied upon by law enforcement units throughout the snowbelt for search-and-rescue work and emergency missions. They are also used by surveyors, ranchers, public utility employees, environmental and wildlife scientists, and countless others. Snowmobiles are also widely used by cross country ski race officials, dog sled races and by ski patrols for rescue purposes.

The Antique Snowmobile Club, located in Minnesota is eager to help you and has a great deal of information on antique snowmobile shows, parts, etc. They can be reached by calling (218) 543-4146 or at their website at www.ascoa.org.Click to enter a detailed answer to the question above. You can add as much text as you like, but we recommend keeping your explanation concise: Visitors to this page will want to find the answers they need quickly! You might consider including images if they help illustrate the information you're providing.